School's back in session

Well, you can tell school is back in session because our office is packed! Most chiropractic offices experience a lull around the time that school starts again, but not ours. We treat so many families, they all want to be at their best for the new school year. So, they come see us:) Of course, there's also the occasional summer injuries that finally make their way in...we've had several surfers with whiplash this year. Be careful our there, folks!

This post, I want to talk to you a bit about Lupus. The official name is Systemic Lupus Erythematosis. Also called SLE, or more simply, Lupus, it is a condition that can go unrecognized for years. Lupus is a chronic, inflammatory, auto-immune condition. It causes the body’s own cells to attack themselves, resulting in tissue damage in joints, the skin, the kidneys, the heart, the lungs, blood vessels and the brain. It typically affects women (all races are affected, but most commonly African American) between the ages of 15 and 45, though all ages and both sexes can be affected. The cause of Lupus is unknown, and there is no known cure. Because of its effect on the vital organs, Lupus can be fatal.

Interestingly, in the literature, the characteristic of Lupus most often mentioned is a malar or "Butterfly" shaped rash on the face, where two wing-like red areas cover the patient's cheeks. However, because this disease is less common in Caucasians, the likelihood of the rash being present is significantly diminished. We need new markers to help doctors diagnose this condition more accurately. Without them, doctors often treat a variety of symptoms for years before finally diagnosing Lupus.

In our office, we help Lupus patients cope with their illness by reducing joint and tissue inflammation and swelling. By using gentle massage and chiropractic adjusting, we can help our patients’ joints move as freely as possible. We often co-treat Lupus patients with a variety of other healthcare professionals, from rheumatologists to acupuncturists to general practitioners. When we work together as a team, the patient always wins.

Our office works in conjunction with the Alliance for Lupus Research. Please visit their website to learn how you can help. They hold a walk every year, and are able to provide valuable insight for patients who have been struggling with the disease.